“Steel Fish” is a sculpture by Alexander Calder crafted in 1934. This piece is an example of Kinetic Art, a movement that emphasizes the incorporation of movement into art. Specifically, Calder’s “Steel Fish” falls into the genre of mobile, a type of moving sculpture that Calder is renowned for pioneering.
The artwork features an assemblage of abstract shapes and colors balanced on wires and rods. At the base, a rounded footing supports the structure, giving rise to a series of intersecting lines and forms that create a sense of dynamic equilibrium. The elements appear carefully positioned, allowing them to move with the air gently, characterizing Calder’s intent to infuse art with motion. The prominent shapes include a large black form resembling a fish, a bold red element, and circular forms in orange and white. The balance of the elements reflects Calder’s engineering background and his fascination with motion and balance.
